As you know, Raja Ampat is home to one of the most pristine reefs in the world with 450 species of hard coral, 600 mollusk species, and as many as 1,100 fish species--including a newly discovered shark that walks on it's fins! But crushing poverty has pushed some local fisherman to use cyanide and dynamite--severely damaging the coral. What's worse, mega commercial fishing companies are threatening to ramp up their operations in these precious waters.

CORAL is working with the villagers to develop tangible benefits for protecting their coral reef--so they won't be forced to destroy it for their own survival. And, in just two years, we've made significant progress--including a tourism fee system that is generating money immediately for the communities. But I'm sure you can understand there is much more to be done to ensure the reef's long-term survival and to help the local people who depend on the reefs for their livelihoods.

CORAL is offering Raja Ampat communities an alternative to these ecologically destructive options. However, we cannot sustain our Raja Ampat programs without support from members like you.

Cheers!

Brian HuseExecutive Director

P.S. You won't believe this "walking" shark until you see it for yourself! Click on the link to the right to view a video and, please, help protect this and other rare creatures by making a gift right now. Thank you.